Key Points
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Woman kidnaps newborns from Gqeberha hospital using fake illness.
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Babies were found safe thanks to quick police response.
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Second suspect arrested as investigation continues.
Police charged a 26-year-old woman, Sinovuyo Rabula, with two counts of kidnapping. She appeared in the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Rabula faked abdominal pain to gain entry into Dora Nginza Hospital’s maternity ward.
Once inside, she pretended to be a new mother. After that, she allegedly abducted two newborns without alerting any hospital staff.
She remains in custody. Authorities scheduled her bail hearing for May 30.
Police officer notices suspicious behavior and acts fast
The following day, a patrolling police officer noticed something unusual. He saw Rabula and another woman, both holding infants, as they left the hospital premises.
The officer acted quickly. He approached them and began asking questions. After further questioning, he verified that the two women had the missing newborns.
Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg confirmed the details. “The officer’s quick thinking helped recover both babies safely,” she said. “His immediate action prevented a longer search.”
Police and prosecutors praise quick teamwork
NPA spokesperson Luxolo Tyali praised the joint effort. He explained how Rabula deceived hospital workers to enter the maternity area and remove the babies unlawfully.
“Fortunately, hospital staff and law enforcement worked together swiftly,” Tyali said. “This teamwork led to the fast recovery of the babies and the arrest of the suspects.”
Additionally, police arrested the second woman, who is 25 years old. Authorities are now investigating the motive behind the abduction.
Hospital administrators are also reviewing their security protocols. They want to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Clearly, the woman kidnaps newborns from Gqeberha hospital case has shaken the local community. However, the swift action by police and healthcare officials reassured the public.